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Astros move pitcher Tatsuya Imai to bullpen amid struggles

From Liberty Times · () Chinese

Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources New plan
  • Houston Astros pitcher Tatsuya Imai will move to the bullpen, as announced by manager Joe Espada.
  • Imai, who signed a three-year, $54 million contract, has struggled with control and consistency this season.
  • The Japanese pitcher expressed his desire to return to the starting rotation but will contribute in his new role.

The Houston Astros are shifting Japanese pitcher Tatsuya Imai to the bullpen, manager Joe Espada announced. Imai, who joined the Astros on a three-year, $54 million contract, has been a starting pitcher this season but has shown inconsistent performance, particularly with his control.

In 15 appearances this season, Imai has compiled a 6-4 record with a 5.83 earned run average. He has allowed 9 home runs and issued 40 walks in 58.2 innings pitched, though he has also recorded 72 strikeouts. Espada stated that Imai would be available out of the bullpen during the current series against the Texas Rangers but did not specify if this was a long-term or temporary adjustment.

Imai acknowledged the role change, stating, "I obviously want to get back into the starting rotation, but this is the team's decision, and I will work hard to contribute in my role." The Astros are currently in a tight race for the AL West lead with the Rangers.

I obviously want to get back into the starting rotation, but this is the team's decision, and I will work hard to contribute in my role.

— Tatsuya ImaiCommenting on his move from the starting rotation to the bullpen.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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